The Difference Between Cytoplasm and Protoplasm: Explained
Introduction
Cytoplasm and protoplasm are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Cytoplasm is a part of the protoplasm, which is a semi-fluid and transparent substance found inside the cells of living organisms. In this article, we will discuss the difference between cytoplasm and protoplasm.
What is Protoplasm?
Protoplasm is the living substance found inside the cells of living organisms. It is a semi-fluid, translucent, and granular substance that contains various organelles such as mitochondria, ribosomes, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and endoplasmic reticulum. Protoplasm is responsible for carrying out various metabolic activities such as respiration, reproduction, and cell division.
What is Cytoplasm?
Cytoplasm is a part of the protoplasm that lies between the cell membrane and the nucleus. It is a translucent and jelly-like substance that fills the entire cell. Cytoplasm contains various organelles such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and centrosomes. It is responsible for providing the shape to the cell and for performing various metabolic functions such as protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism.
Differences Between Cytoplasm and Protoplasm
Composition
Protoplasm is composed of all the living substances found inside the cell such as cytoplasm, nucleus, and organelles. On the other hand, cytoplasm is composed of only the contents of the cell that lie between the cell membrane and the nucleus.
Location
Protoplasm is present inside the entire cell, including the nucleus and organelles. In contrast, cytoplasm is located between the cell membrane and the nucleus.
Function
Protoplasm is responsible for carrying out various metabolic functions within the cell, including respiration, reproduction, and cell division. Cytoplasm performs the metabolic functions required to sustain the life of the cell, such as protein synthesis and glucose metabolism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cytoplasm is a part of protoplasm that lies between the cell membrane and the nucleus. It is responsible for carrying out various metabolic functions required to sustain the life of the cell. Protoplasm, on the other hand, is the living substance found inside the entire cell, which includes cytoplasm, organelles, and the nucleus. Understanding the difference between cytoplasm and protoplasm is essential in the study of biology and cell structure.
Table difference between cytoplasm and protoplasm
| Cytoplasm | Protoplasm |
|---|---|
| Refers to the fluid found within the cell membrane and outside of the nucleus | Refers to the entire cell contents, including the nucleus and organelles |
| Contains organelles such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and the endoplasmic reticulum | Contains all of the components necessary for cell survival and function, including DNA |
| Acts as a medium for metabolic reactions to occur within the cell | Plays a role in cell division and DNA replication |
| Composed primarily of water, dissolved ions, and organic molecules such as carbohydrates and proteins | Composed of water, solutes, and macromolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins |
| Found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells | Found only in eukaryotic cells |